Dental Care Important for Heart Health

Dental care important for heart health - People who regularly check their teeth and take care of their teeth tend to have fewer heart problems. This conclusion was discovered by Professor Howard Jenkinson from the University of Bristol, England. Jenkinson was by chance got the findings when examining how blood cells are affected by bacteria.

Bacteria in the mouth

The mouth has almost 700 species of bacteria that live in it. These bacteria help break down food particles. Every time you eat, drink or even open your mouth, the number of bacteria in your mouth will increase. Most of them are the type of bacteria that are safe, but there are also dangerous. Brushing your teeth properly and take care of keeping the bacterial growth remained under control.

However, poor dental care can lead to gum infections, gingivitis and other oral diseases. This can cause harmful bacteria enter the bloodstream and become an independent factor that causes heart disease. The bacteria are spread through your arteries from the mouth can also lead to increased plaque formation, as well as foods rich in saturated fat increases the production of plaque on artery walls. This is contributing to increased blood pressure and decreased blood flow leading to heart disease and even stroke. Streptococcus Gordonii and Streptococcus sanguinis are some bacteria that cause mouth infections and identified the factors that cause heart disease.

at this moment in time, scientists comprise two possible explanations for this association. One is that the micro-organisms that cause periodontics disease can release toxins into or travel through the blood stream and help to form fatty plaques in the blood vessels. These plaque sediments can factor to serious problems, such as blood clots, which can block blood flow.

The other explanation is that these bacteria cause the hepatic to make high levels of specific proteins, which stimulate the blood vessels. Inflammation eventually could lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Loose teeth
• A change in the way your teeth come together when you bite down
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth

Prevention is better, Keep your mouth healthy

Certain antibiotics appear to be ineffective against heart disease. It is possible that oral bacteria cause. Professor Jenkinson and Dr Steve Kerringan still working to find solutions. Until found, prevention of oral disease and maintaining oral hygiene is the best method to protect yourself. Protection can be further enhanced by using dental care products such as anti-bacterial spray and mouthwash. This helps to prevent infection of the mouth and in turn, protects against one cause of heart disease.

It's important to take care of your mouth and teeth starting in childhood. If you don't, you could have problems with your teeth and gums - like cavities or even tooth loss

Here's how to keep your mouth and teeth healthy:

 

• Brush your teeth every day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Floss your teeth every day
• Snack smart – limit sugary snacks
• Don't smoke or chew tobacco
• See your dentist regularly 

NIH: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

So this is all about Dental care important for heart health. If you have symptoms of periodontal disease, see your dentist for treatment.